Cystic fibrosis, commonly termed CF is a rare health condition. However, it’s common among genetic disorders. This inherited disorder causes sticky mucus to build up in organs, like the lungs or pancreas. Medical care helps manage the condition. But the exact cure for CF is still not available.
Cells producing mucus get affected by CF, leading to extreme damage. That sticky mucus accumulation can block the airways, causing breathing difficulties. While on the other hand, if sticky mucus clogs the pancreas, you develop digestive issues. Talk to one of the best genetic doctors in Siliguri. Lifestyle management and treatment options aid in optimal healing.
Depending upon the extremity of CF, symptoms come, including:
Respiratory symptoms & signs
- Coughing up sticky, thick mucus
- Ongoing cough
- Ongoing sinus infection (sinusitis)
- Nasal passage inflammation
- Sensitivity to workouts
- Prone to lung infections
- Wheezing
- Breathing issues
Digestive symptoms & signs
- Poor growth and development
- Passing oily, loose stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pancreas inflammation
- Diarrhea
- Intestinal blockage
- Chronic constipation
- Foul-smelling stools
Consult your doctor if your child showing such signs. Genetic testing is required if CF runs in your family, especially, in first-degree relatives. If you’re planning pregnancy, seek expert assistance like a physician or genetic doctor. You might consider consulting one of the leading genetic doctors in Siliguri city.
Complications of CF
Health hazards resulting from CF rest on the organ damage. Given below are the complications of CF:
Digestive system concerns
- Nutritional imbalances may occur due to this inherited disorder. Obstructions in the tubes account for enzymes to reach the pancreas leading to vitamins, protein, and other essential nutrient deficiencies.
- Due to nutritional deficiencies, one may have delayed growth, pancreas inflammation, weight loss, etc. At the same time, such deficiencies may contribute to other health conditions.
- CF can be responsible for obstructing the bile duct. And that may result in fatty liver, jaundice, gallstones, hepatic cirrhosis, etc.
- If the pancreas gets affected by CF, the chance of developing diabetes may become higher since the pancreas produces insulin.
Respiratory system concerns
- Ongoing infections are common respiratory complications of CF. Mucus deposits in the lungs and sinuses can make one prone to pneumonia, sinus infection/sinusitis, bronchitis, etc.
- Bronchiectasis is another common complication of CF, resulting in airway enlargement. This makes you sensitive to frequent airway infections. Chronic cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue, coughing up blood are some of the signs of it.
- Hemoptysis refers to coughing up blood often a result of bronchiectasis. Massive hemoptysis is alarming; therefore, immediate medical attention is required.
- Respiratory failure is a potential complication of CF that may occur without medical assistance or lifestyle management. Damage to the lung tissue can lead to loss of lung function progressively. Get genetic testing in Siliguri under A1 medical supervision.
Other health complications of CF can be osteoporosis, fertility issues, dehydration, or even mental health concerns such as anxiety, or depression. Doctors, upon diagnosis, may recommend medications, surgical procedures with medications, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Lifestyle modification should be maintained well as advised.
